In North Carolina, a call for rules to protect trees

Are the tree ordinances in the Charlotte, N.C., region enough to protect the tree canopy?

Tree advocates don't think so. And in response, some communities are revising ordinances to make preservation a bigger priority.

Without stricter requirements, the region will suffer the consequences of more pollution, less shade, fewer wildlife habitats and less protection against soil erosion, said Craig Madans, chair of the volunteer Charlotte Tree Advisory Commission. Madans said he favors a regional tree ordinance so every town is covered.